President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has secured a pivotal economic breakthrough for the Maldives’ fisheries sector following a decision by the United Kingdom to abolish tariffs on Maldivian tuna products, the ruling People’s National Congress said.
The tariff elimination, which took effect on 20 May, followed earlier bilateral discussions in London, where the president had met with the British monarch and senior government officials. PNC representatives noted that the removal of the levies had been President Muizzu’s most prominent request during negotiations in the United Kingdom, a major export destination for Maldivian fish. The regulatory change is expected to significantly increase export volumes, expanding production capacity and increasing overall revenue. PNC officials highlighted the breakthrough as a significant leap forward for local fishermen, their families, and commercial enterprises.
The ruling party issued the statement to congratulate the government, noting that rescuing the sector from its decline has been a distinct priority for the president since his first day in office. Stating that the administration is actively achieving success in this endeavour, the PNC expressed gratitude on behalf of fishermen for numerous initiatives launched to bring prosperity to the industry. The president is actively working to secure a fair and appropriate price for catches while concurrently striving to establish space for Maldivian fisheries products within new international markets, the statement read.
Comprehensive reforms instituted by President Muizzu were met with profound appreciation by the political faction, which highlighted a new system that guarantees fishermen receive payment within 48 hours of landing their catch for state-owned fish processing companies. The party commended the administration for newly organised provisions for affordable fuel, alongside facilitating financial assistance to equip fishing vessels with refrigerated seawater systems.
The statement cited the launching of overarching industry development projects and the establishment of a dedicated state enterprise specifically designed to promote Maldivian fisheries on the global stage.